England scrum half Harry Ellis says the British & Irish Lions are ready to move on from last weekend’s first Test defeat to the Springboks and bring more success to the tour.
Ellis was among the replacements in Durban last weekend and gets another chance to impress ahead of the second Test in Pretoria on Saturday when he plays against the Emerging Boks in Cape Town tonight.
He will be partnering Ronan O’Gara at half-back and both players know that a big game could push them into contention for a call-up for the crucial game at Loftus Versfeld.
“It was very disappointing last weekend, but everyone has experienced losses before and you have to forget about them, let them go and concentrate massively on the next game,” said Ellis.
“It’s the nature of sport – you just get on with it. There is a great attitude among the players, everyone is professional and you expect nothing less.
“It’s always difficult after you’ve put so much time and effort and belief into a performance like that first Test. But we’ve now got to focus on what’s coming up – the game against the Emerging Boks and the final two Tests.”
Ellis is full of praise for the Lions coaching staff and is loving the experience of being a Lion.
“With Ian McGeechan, everything he says you listen to. He’s got great guys around him who have been there and done that, whether in their playing or coaching careers,” added Ellis.
“There are a lot of guys to take experience from and there are a few guys who have been on tours before, so if you need any advice there are plenty of people around you. We are all here to win in a massive sporting country.
“We are all focused on that and there is a great attitude amongst the guys and it’s great to be a part of it.”
